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German cruise liner receives warm welcome in Dubai

DUBAI - A German cruise liner MS Columbus recently berthed at the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing's cruise terminal at Port Rashid.

The luxury ship, carrying about 144 mostly German passengers, was greeted by the DTCM officials. Apart from Germany there were passengers from Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg and Austria. The ship arrived from Muscat and sailed to Mumbai. Tourists experienced a warm Arabian welcome as soon as they stepped on the jetty. There was a local police band, traditional craftsmen displaying their skills and each guest received flowers from Dubai schoolchildren.

Awadh Al Seghayer, DTCM Acting Manager, Dubai Cruise Terminal, said the cruise line business has undergone a rapid growth around the world and, as a result, the cruise industry in Dubai has further broadened its sphere. "Due to a massive growth in this sector there has been a strong demand for new cruise itineraries in different parts of the world and Dubai because of its vivid culture and variety of attractions has become a major cruise destination," he said.

Mr Seghayer said that there was a passenger exchange at the Dubai Cruise Terminal.

"About 117 passengers disembarked the liner and stayed in Dubai for three days in the emirate's hotels before leaving.

In addition, 70 passengers who flew to Dubai also stayed in the emirate for three days before embarking the liner.